This Christmas, I got a new Bible. It has illustrations of certain verses on the sides of the pages. As I was flipping through the Bible, looking at all the pretty written out verses, I saw one that stuck out to me. Exodus 3:14 “I am who I am.” Yes, God was talking to Moses about what to say to the Israelites. Yet, these powerful words are so comforting for me to read.
These past months has been stressful. Between school, family priorities, and wanting to hang out with my best friend, it’s been hard to maintain a relationship with God. To be completely honest, I haven’t had much motivation to read my Bible, talk to God, and worship Him. My focus has not been on the right things. I have felt discouraged and lonely.
I read this quote the other day that said “If you were in a relationship and you only spent 5 minutes a day talking to your boyfriend/girlfriend, would you expect to have a strong and healthy relationship? No, obviously not. You spend time talking and getting to know the person as much as you can when you want something to be strong and last forever. So, why don’t you spend much time with God? How do you expect to continue to be in a good relationship with God if you down put in the time?” I immediately felt convicted. I know I need to spend more time with God. I know why I have been feeling discouraged and lonely. Yet, I still don’t do what I need to do.
The good thing is, God never fails to remind me who He is. He is who He is. He loves us perfectly. He sent His own son to die for the girl who sometimes prioritizes friends and family over a relationship with Him. He gives us undeserving grace. He is waiting for us to come back to him. I think it’s pretty cool how when you feel like you are at your lowest, God shows us certain things that remind us who He is.
Ashley Billings 
I completely understand your feelings and you are not alone in this struggle. As an adult, I often have the struggle of keeping God first. But, His so very gentle reminders of who He is and that he lovingly waits for me to make time are beautiful. Love you!
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Obsessed ❤️❤️❤️
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Ashley, this is beautiful. It made me stop and think of my own life and where God is. Thank you for sharing.
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This is the best!! XO mom
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You are wise beyond your years, sweet Ashley! I can totally relate to this struggle too. Thank you for sharing your story…I love you and your vulnerability ❤️🥰
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you are growing each and every day Ashley as Abba, God your father, is so very pleased!!!
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Wow! You nailed it! Christmas is supposed to be about Christ but we try to make it about decorations, food, family, gifts, gatherings, and other distractions. We need to draw closer to Him, so He will draw closer to us.
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Well put Ashley. I to get pre-occupied with duties of the day. I find when I start my day off reading God’s word, my day is just better. Thanks for the message.
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With all the packing, moving, unpacking, holidays etc., I can totally relate to this because in my busyness I’m missing the closeness with our Heavenly Father. You explained His unconditional LOVE & GRACE so Beautifully! I’m Thankful that He is Faithful, even when we are not (2 Timothy 2:13). Hebrews 13:5 shares the truth that He will NEVER leave us or forsake us…I know this is TRUE, because through the years I’ve given Him reason to leave me and He has never left my side, in fact those have been some of the times I feel Him closer than ever! Thank you for sharing your heart with such transparency, because your realness is encouraging and inspiring! Love You Ash🥰
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